Volkswagen’s Vento is a pretty popular sedan in our market, and is loved for its understated design language, good driving dynamics and performance. It’s also known for solid build quality. However, the car is now beginning to get a little too long in the tooth while the interior too, feel a little too humdrum. It may have all the necessary features, but in this refreshed 1.0-litre model we’re driving, there is still something to be excited about in this. We take for a spin.
The design
The Volkswagen cars design, despite being old, is still liked by many thanks to its clean German car lines. For 2020, this model gets styling revisions also seen on the Polo GTI, like the sporty front bumper, LED headlights with DRLs and 16-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. The model we’re driving is the TSI Limited Edition, so it includes some graphics, black ORVMS, a boot spoiler and a black roof.
Inside the cabin
On the quality front, it does tend to show its age, but the cabin is a blend of black and beige with a lot of hard plastics around. The upholstery is beige and so are certain plastics. The flat-bottom steering sports glossy inserts while the centre console gets a silver frame.There’s sufficient space at the rear, and the car gets rear AC vents. The seats could’ve been better cushioned though. Head room is decent as well. The solidness of car can be felt when you shut its doors.
Performance & Handling
The new Vento is powered by a 1.0-litre TSI engine that makes 109bhp and 175Nm of torque, paired to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. The torque-converter is quite smooth and responsive, and once you dab on the throttle, the car picks up pace very quickly. Overtaking is a boon as well. The motor has a strong mid-range but it isn’t all that refined and the three-cylinder thrum is evident. Too much of stress on the engine can result in it sounding vocal. Power is more than adequate. The car delivers a fuel efficiency figure of 17.69kpl. The steering has a good amount of weight to it, and feels particularly good around corners. The ride quality is on the firm side but absorbs bumps without any hesitation.
Features
It gets equipment like front fog lamps with cornering function, speed-sensing door locks, 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, front and rear centre armrest, leather-wrapped steering wheel, footwell lights, cooled.
The final say
We just wish Volkswagen introduced an all-new Vento, but for the time being, the refreshed Vento continues to impress with its handling and new, peppy engine. We’re leaving the rest of the car for you to decide on. Also, read the latest car comparisons, only at autoX.